Launch of New Exceptional Circumstances Policy

Over the past few years, Schools across the University have seen steep rises in the number of extensions requested and accepted on assessments, delaying substantial volumes of coursework for marking and moderation, alongside other complex issues. This was under the old Coursework Extensions and Special Circumstances Policy.

After several months of work, the exciting new Exceptional Circumstances Policy has been launched, ready in time for this semester’s assessments in October and December. Students and staff are already finding it a better service than before, thanks to the associated service and system adaptations approved by the APRC (Academic Policy and Regulations Committee).

Under this new policy, students can now apply for self-certified extensions (and other options) with evidence, providing the support they need during exceptional circumstances. Staff will find a reduction in the number of manual applications they approve. These changes are will improve turnaround time for anyone involved in applications, helping ease pressure for students awaiting an answer.

Following two years of work, and with thanks to you all for your support, the University’s new Exceptional Circumstances Policy has launched, to replace the Coursework Extensions and Special Circumstances policies and supported by an improved application system and communications with students. You will recall that the aim of the new policy is to ensure a consistent experience and make sure we provide helpful and appropriate support for students who are facing unexpected, exceptional short-term circumstances that affect their ability to complete their assessments. This roll out has already been well received by some students. Examples of messages we have had from students include, “Thank you for notifying me about these new changes to the policy, and how they will affect/influence the request for extensions. This is a great support” and, “This is exemplary of inclusion, diversity and giving us hope”. We will continue to monitor feedback from staff and students over this year.

Lucy Evans

How rare it is for something as substantial as this to go as well as this has. I have got a lot out of being a small part of this but it’s been so impressive to see how well everyone has worked together and I can only imagine how much work it has taken for lots of you. Hope you enjoy a well-earned celebration!

Adam Bunni

Find out more about why the policy changed, or more about the new Exceptional Circumstances Service.